Hi all - I have a UK W123 230E auto 1983. I'd like to improve the mpg. Other than going *everywhere* at 55mph ;-) is replacing the rear axle/diff with one from another merc a good way to do this?

I have heard that the auto 4 speed suffers by 15-20% mpg as it has such a high final drive ratio!

What if I replaced from a manual 5 speeder? Or from a different W-series altogether? Am I mad?

What is involved in changing the ratios, does the trans need to be removed, or can parts be sourced? Novice!!

cheers

__________________
>Joe

http://www.bonnemay.co.uk/pics/W123_48.gif
1984 W123 230E Saloon/Sedan! (82k miles - Ice Blue as new)
1985 W123 230TE (96K miles - stinkingly nice!)
1995 W124 E320 Wagon (130k miles)
Future projects:
Sportline Suspension W124, W123 TE restoration, A/C, cruise & powered seats retrofit!

>Based in the UK!